Heroin
Heroin can be administered through injection, smoking, snorting, or sniffing, and it binds to opioid receptors in the brain and body, resulting in pleasurable sensations, pain relief, and a sense of relaxation. The rapid action of heroin produces an intense ‘rush’ or wave of euphoria within seconds to minutes, creating a highly reinforcing experience for users. The addictive nature of heroin is attributed to the brain becoming less responsive to the drug with repeated use, leading to tolerance and increased physical dependency. As tolerance develops, users require progressively larger doses to achieve the same euphoric effects, consequently raising the risk of overdose. Heroin withdrawal and detox can be extremely distressing and painful if not managed medically, often accompanied by symptoms such as nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, muscle and bone pain, insomnia, anxiety, and intense cravings. These withdrawal symptoms typically emerge within hours of the last dose and can persist for several days to weeks, driving many users to continue using heroin to avoid the discomfort and perpetuating the cycle of addiction. If you suspect that you or a loved one is grappling with heroin addiction, it is advisable to reach out to our Treatment Advisors for a free assessment and guidance. Tel: 07811 606 606 (24 hours)
Peer pressure
Peer pressure can contribute to recreational drug use, particularly among teenagers whose judgment and self-control centre in the brain are still developing. Various psychological factors, such as trauma or challenging life experiences, can drive individuals to use heroin as a means of coping with difficult emotions. Using heroin to self-medicate a mental health condition can also lead to habitual behaviour and the development of a severe substance abuse disorder. Certain personality traits, from high compulsivity to seeking adrenaline, may predispose some individuals to mental health instability, increasing their vulnerability to addiction. A dual diagnosis of addiction and a mental health condition is complex and necessitates specialised care. While some individuals may use drugs recreationally, others may experience a strong impulse to consume them excessively. Neuroscience has revealed varying levels of ability and brain function in controlling impulsive urges, which can be inherited and increase the susceptibility of family members to addiction problems. Tel: 07811 606 606 (24 hours)
Heroin abuse
Heroin abuse has a significant impact on the brain’s chemical systems and functions, leading to the deterioration of the brain’s white matter. The high levels of dopamine produced by heroin negatively affect the brain’s natural dopamine production, resulting in lower natural dopamine levels among long-term users. This can lead to depression and feelings of hopelessness when attempting to withdraw from the drug, often necessitating professional help, such as residential rehab and heroin detox. Tel: 07811 606 606 (24 hours)
The brain
The brain and body can adapt to the drug, leading to a potential need for higher doses to achieve the desired effects. This adaptation can result in physical dependence, causing withdrawal symptoms when the drug is discontinued. Heroin addiction can result in various negative consequences, including social, occupational, and health-related issues. It may lead to impaired judgment, memory loss, respiratory problems, infections, and other serious medical conditions, potentially becoming life-threatening in cases of overdose. The influence of individuals who abuse drugs can impact the behaviour of those around them, and parental guidance plays a significant role in the likelihood of someone developing an addiction. Children exposed to drug abuse are at a higher risk of developing their own substance abuse problems later in life. Tel: 07811 606 606 (24 hours)